More cancer coverage for Alberta firefighters

<p>CALGARY – Alberta firefighters who develop prostate, breast, skin or bone marrow cancer are now eligible for workers’ compensation.</p> <p>Employment Minister Thomas Lukaszuk (loo-KAHZ’-ick) says there are now 14 cancers deemed to be work-related if there’s been regular exposure to toxins over several years.</p> <p>He told firefighters at their annual convention in Calgary that Alberta and Manitoba lead the way in cancer-related work coverage for fire crews.</p> <p>Firefighters are at a greater risk for the disease because of the chemicals they are exposed to in burning buildings.</p> <p>Lukaszuk says the province has an obligation to protect those who dedicate their careers to saving others.</p> <p>Leukemia, brain, bladder and kidney cancers are some of the others eligible for claims under workers’ compensation.</p>